Cork is one of the most sustainable materials in the world and a great majority of it comes from Portugal

The last time we checked, the Casas Em Movimento House is not actually rotating, but its performance scores are climbing despite some delays in construction. Conceptually, the robust envelope of photovoltaic panels moves in two directions to maximize solar gain in both summer and winter. This uses less energy than that which is required to power an iron. The entire home’s rotation uses the equivalent of six lamp bulbs and results in a 40% increase in energy production.

In addition to the energy-generating skin, the use of cork increases Casas Em Movimento aesthetic appeal. Laid in front of the house and incorporated into the interior as well, this is Portugal’s signature sustainable material and it has excellent thermal properties. Timber construction adds to the project’s overall sustainability, as does the modular construction, ensuring yet another quality collegiate architecture project. Stay tuned as we continue to report live from the Villa Solar in Madrid.